Editing C2c

{{Short description|British train operating company}}
{{Other uses|C2C (disambiguation)}}
{{Technical|date=January 2025}}
{{Use British English|date=September 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2025}}
{{lowercase title}}
{{Infobox rail company
|name             = c2c
|logo             = C2c logo.svg
|logo_size        = 170
|image            = 357317 at Southend East.jpg
|caption          = [[British Rail Class 357|Class 357 ''Electrostar'']] at {{rws|Southend East}} in November 2020
|franchise        = {{ubl|London, Tilbury & Southend: 26 May 1996 {{ndash}} 8 November 2014|[[Essex Thameside]]: 9 November 2014 {{ndash}} 18 July 2021}}
|contract         = Essex Thameside: 19 July 2021 {{ndash}} 20 July 2025
|start_year       = {{start date|1996|5|26|df=y}}
|nameforarea      = route
|abbr             = CC
|regions          = {{rws|Fenchurch Street}} to {{rws|Shoeburyness}}
|secregions       = {{ubl|Fenchurch Street to {{rws|Grays}} via {{rws|Rainham|London}}|Fenchurch Street to {{rws|Pitsea}} via {{rws|Ockendon}}|{{rws|Liverpool Street}} to Shoeburyness}}
|fleet            = {{ubl|[[British Rail Class 357|Class 357 ''Electrostar'']] | [[British Rail Class 720|Class 720 ''Aventra'']] }}
|stations         = 28
|stationsop       = 25
|length           = {{convert|125.5|km|mi}}
|parent_company   = {{ubl|[[Prism Rail]] (1996{{ndash}}2000)|[[National Express]] (2000{{ndash}}2017)|[[Trenitalia]] (2017{{ndash}}present)}}
|headquarters     = 7th Floor, Centennium House, 100 Lower Thames Street, London, EC3R 6DL
|website          = {{Official URL}}
|routemap         = {{C2C RDT}}
|predecessor_line = [[Network SouthEast]]
}}

'''Trenitalia c2c,''' [[trading name|trading as]] '''c2c,''' is a British [[train operating company]] that operates commuter services from its London terminus at {{rws|Fenchurch Street}} to parts of East London and south Essex along the [[London, Tilbury and Southend line]], as part of the [[Essex Thameside]] railway contract. It manages 25 stations and its trains call at 28. It is owned by [[Trenitalia]], the primary train operator of [[Italy]].

After the [[privatisation of British Rail]], the London, Tilbury & Southend railway franchise was awarded to [[Prism Rail]], who began operating as '''LTS Rail''' in May 1996. To fulfil its original franchise commitment of replacing its [[Slam-door train|slam-door]] rolling stock, LTS Rail ordered 44 [[British Rail Class 357|Class 357 ''Electrostar'']] [[electric multiple unit]]s (EMUs) in 1997; an additional order two years later saw the replacement completed by 2003. During 2000, LTS Rail rebranded as c2c, the same year Prism Rail was acquired by [[National Express]].

The original franchise was scheduled to conclude on 26 May 2011, but received multiple extensions before National Express was awarded a second franchise in 2014. Various service changes and amenities have been introduced over the course of the two franchise periods, including the fitting of [[Regenerative brake|regenerative braking]] to its rolling stock (the first UK train operator to do so) in March 2007, the launch of Quiet Zones onboard its trains in early 2008, the provision of [[Wi-Fi]] in April 2017, and the rolling out of [[Oyster card (pay as you go) on National Rail|pay-as-you-go]] and [[Smartcards on National Rail|National Rail ITSO smartcard]] ticket options over multiple years.

In February 2017, National Express sold c2c to Trenitalia. During December of that year, c2c announced an order with [[Porterbrook]] for six [[British Rail Class 720|Class 720/6 ''Aventra'']] EMUs in response to growing demand; these were introduced in September 2023. Largely in response to the [[COVID-19]] pandemic, the franchise agreement was replaced by a rail contract on 19 July 2021 under which services have continued to be run. In February 2023, the [[Department for Transport]] (DfT) announced the extension of c2c's contract through to July 2025. c2c was one of several train operators impacted by the [[2022–2024 United Kingdom railway strikes]].

The company will be [[renationalised]] and taken over by [[Great British Railways]] when its contract expires on 20 July 2025

==History==
===First franchise (1996–2014)===
====LTS Rail====
The [[Essex Thameside|London, Tilbury and Southend franchise]] was created as part of the [[privatisation of British Rail]]. In December 1995, the franchise was awarded to a [[management buyout]]; the handover was initially due to happen on 4 February 1996. However, on 1 February 1996, ticketing and settlement irregularities were discovered and the other shortlisted bidders were invited to tender again.<ref name="NAO 1996">{{cite web |url=https://www.nao.org.uk/reports/the-award-of-the-first-three-passenger-rail-franchises-2/ |title=Office of Passenger Rail Franchising:The award of the first three passenger rail franchises |publisher=[[National Audit Office (United Kingdom)|National Audit Office]] |date=16 October 1996 |access-date=5 February 2023 |archive-date=5 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230205082254/https://www.nao.org.uk/reports/the-award-of-the-first-three-passenger-rail-franchises-2/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/inquiry-into-ticket-fraud-stalls-rail-selloff-1317124.html |title=Inquiry into ticket fraud stalls rail sell-off |newspaper=The Independent |location=London, UK |date=4 February 1996 |first=Paul |last=Routledge}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/government-orders-rail-fraud-inquiry-1317400.html |title=Government orders rail fraud inquiry |newspaper=The Independent |location=London, UK |date=5 February 1996 |first=Christian |last=Wolmar |archive-date=21 September 2019 |access-date=25 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190921185937/https://www.independent.co.uk/news/government-orders-rail-fraud-inquiry-1317400.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In May 1996, the franchise was awarded to [[Prism Rail]] by the [[Director of Passenger Rail Franchising]] for a period of 15&nbsp;years. It began operating as LTS Rail on 26 May 1996.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/soaring-prism-renews-rail-sale-attack-1349842.html |title=Soaring Prism renews rail sale attack |newspaper=The Independent |location=London, UK |date=30 May 1996 |first=Magnus |last=Grimond |archive-date=16 March 2014 |access-date=25 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140316005727/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/soaring-prism-renews-rail-sale-attack-1349842.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The franchise period could have been reduced to seven years if the operator did not fulfil commitments made during the bidding phase to replace its rolling stock with new-build trains.<ref name="NAO 1996"/>

Passenger numbers increased above forecasts which caused overcrowding as trains reached capacity at peak times.<ref name="NAO 2000">{{cite web |title=Action to improve passenger rail services |url=https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2000/08/9900842.pdf |publisher=National Audit Office |access-date=5 February 2023 |date=3 August 2000 |archive-date=5 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230205084135/https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2000/08/9900842.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> During 1998, the franchise was renegotiated to provide for the elimination of slam-door rolling stock and increased fleet by March 2002, increased staffing of stations, real-time passenger information system, improved security measures, improved station facilities for disabled people, increased cycle storage and pedestrian access from [[Chafford Hundred railway station]] to [[Lakeside Shopping Centre]].<ref name="1998 franchise">{{cite web |title=Improvement for Passengers on LTS Rail |url=http://www.opraf.gov.uk/news/releases/1998/98_11_11.htm |publisher=Office of Passenger Rail Franchising |access-date=30 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991010171219/http://www.opraf.gov.uk/news/releases/1998/98_11_11.htm |archive-date=10 October 1999 |date=11 November 1998}}</ref>

LTS Rail started serving {{rws|West Ham}} from 14 May 1999 to coincide with the opening of the [[Jubilee line]] extension. Peak services were restricted at West Ham, because of limitations of the signalling system. These were eliminated in time for the December 2011 timetable change ahead of the 2012 Summer Olympics.<ref>{{cite web |title=Essex Thameside Franchise Consultation |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/2682/essex-thameside-franchise-replacement.pdf |publisher=Department for Transport |access-date=29 January 2023 |date=February 2012 |archive-date=7 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230107104329/https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/2682/essex-thameside-franchise-replacement.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>

On 2 July 2000, the business was rebranded as c2c.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=LTS Rail relaunches as c2c |magazine=[[Rail (magazine)|Rail]] |issue=386 |date=28 June 2000 |page=4}}</ref> To coincide with the rebranding, the company website was launched on 16 June 2000.<ref>{{cite web |title=New website for new rail company c2c |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/site/news/news_1a2b.htm |website=c2c-online.co.uk |access-date=3 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010209093201/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/site/news/news_1a2b.htm |archive-date=9 February 2001 |date=19 June 2000}}</ref> The company name was also changed from LTS Rail Limited to c2c Rail Limited shortly thereafter.

====National Express====
During July 2000, c2c was included in the sale of Prism Rail to [[National Express]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/4458960/National-Express-buys-Prism-for-166m.html |title=National Express buys Prism for £166m |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |date=19 July 2000 |location=London, UK |first=Alistair |last=Osborne |archive-date=22 November 2020 |access-date=3 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201122152744/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/4458960/National-Express-buys-Prism-for-166m.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2000/jul/19/5 |title=National Express buys Prism for £166m |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London, UK |date=19 July 2000 |first=Keith |last=Harper |archive-date=23 October 2013 |access-date=11 December 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023081315/http://www.theguardian.com/business/2000/jul/19/5 |url-status=live }}</ref> The merger of the companies was completed on 19 September 2000.<ref>{{cite web |title=Base Prospectus: National Express |url=https://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/4776e_1-2009-12-21.pdf |publisher=Merrill Corporation |access-date=3 February 2023 |date=21 December 2009 |archive-date=30 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630143854/https://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/4776e_1-2009-12-21.pdf |url-status=dead}}</ref> National Express combined the management and support functions of c2c, Silverlink, WAGN and Stansted Express in a single organisation called London Lines in March 2001.<ref>{{cite web |title=Annual Report 2001 |url=https://www.nationalexpressgroup.com/media/ilijyhvw/094525-ar2001.pdf |publisher=National Express |access-date=8 February 2023 |year=2002}}</ref>

In March 2002, management of Fenchurch Street Station was transferred from c2c to [[Network Rail]].<ref name="SL Network Rail">{{cite web |title=Station Licence granted to Network Rail Infrastructure Limited |url=https://www.orr.gov.uk/sites/default/files/om/nr-stat-licence.pdf |publisher=Office of Rail and Road |access-date=1 February 2023 |year=2019 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201160829/https://www.orr.gov.uk/sites/default/files/om/nr-stat-licence.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>

During January 2005, it was announced that an on-train [[television]] service would be tried out, and one unit had televisions installed.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.campaignlive.co.uk/article/c2c-abandons-train-tv-trial/510593 |title=C2C abandons train TV trial |website=campaignlive.co.uk |first=Kevin |last=May |date=3 May 2005}}</ref> In June 2006, the ''360 On-Board Television'' service ran into financial difficulties when c2c's partner in the project, TNCI (UK), ceased trading, and the service was withdrawn. c2c indicated it would restart the roll-out should a suitable partner be found.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/latest_updates/news/tv_on_trains_trials_stopped |title=TV on Trains – Trials Stopped |publisher=c2c |date=20 June 2006 |access-date=19 July 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080515201032/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/latest_updates/news/tv_on_trains_trials_stopped |archive-date=15 May 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

In June 2006, it was announced that portable [[X-ray]] machines and metal detectors would be randomly placed at stations and carried by officers on trains during summer 2006 to catch people carrying weapons, in a joint operation with [[Essex Police]] and [[British Transport Police]], following trials at [[London Underground]] stations.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/essex/5052594.stm |work=BBC News |title=Railway passengers to be scanned |date=6 June 2006 |access-date=19 July 2008 |archive-date=21 August 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060821072633/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/essex/5052594.stm |url-status=live }}</ref>

A peak timetable introduced on 11 December 2006, with the aim of improving services for the [[Thurrock]] and [[London Riverside]] sections of the [[Thames Gateway]], was withdrawn on 8 January 2007 after a campaign by passengers as a result of delays and cancellations that affected other lines on the network.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/latest_updates/news/morning_and_evening_weekday_peak_schedules_to_return_to_previous_patterns_as_c2c_restores_old_timetable |title=Morning and evening weekday peak schedules to return to previous patterns as c2c restores old timetable |publisher=c2c |date=3 January 2007 |access-date=19 July 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090211004027/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk:80/latest_updates/news/morning_and_evening_weekday_peak_schedules_to_return_to_previous_patterns_as_c2c_restores_old_timetable |archive-date=11 February 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.echo-news.co.uk/display.var.1099738.0.old_c2c_timetable_back_on_monday.php |newspaper=Southend Echo |title=Old c2c timetable back on Monday |first=Rob |last=Pritchard |date=3 January 2007 |access-date=19 July 2008}}</ref> During August 2006, c2c agreed to work with [[Passenger Focus]] to establish a passenger panel.<ref>{{cite web |title=c2c's timetable consultation – Passenger Focus report |url=https://www.transportfocus.org.uk/publication/c2cs-timetable-consultation-passenger-focus-report/ |publisher=Passenger Focus |access-date=6 February 2023 |date=24 August 2006}}</ref>

In October 2007, c2c announced that the first coach of each unit would be made a Quiet Zone, where passengers are asked not to use their mobile phones or play music out loud.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.consumerdeals.co.uk/cgi-bin/forum/YaBB.pl?num=1192786704 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111008155703/https://www.consumerdeals.co.uk/cgi-bin/forum/YaBB.pl?num=1192786704 |title=The Unofficial c2c Rail Info Site |website=consumerdeals.co.uk |date=29 October 2007 |access-date=19 July 2008 |archive-date=8 October 2011}}</ref> The Quiet Zone was introduced during early 2008 and is indicated by magenta vinyl stickers on the doors of the coach.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/about_us/quiet_zone |title=Quiet Zone |publisher=c2c |year=2008 |access-date=19 July 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080509170105/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/about_us/quiet_zone |archive-date=9 May 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

In October 2007, c2c announced that it had switched to renewably-generated electricity in all its stations, maintenance facilities and offices in a contract with [[E.ON UK]], said to be the largest of its kind in the transport sector.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/latest_updates/news/c2c_switches_to_renewable_energy_sources |title=c2c switches to renewable energy sources |publisher=c2c |date=2 October 2007 |access-date=19 July 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080705200312/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/latest_updates/news/c2c_switches_to_renewable_energy_sources |archive-date=5 July 2008}}</ref>

The franchise was originally due to conclude on 26 May 2011. In December 2010, the [[Department for Transport]] granted National Express an extension until 26 May 2013 to allow DfT time to conduct a review of the franchising process.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/2010/12/23-c2c-extension-awarded-to-national.html |title=c2c extension awarded to National Express |website=railnews.co.uk |location=Stevenage, UK |date=23 December 2010}}</ref> During March 2013, the [[Secretary of State for Transport]] announced the franchise would again be extended until 13 September 2014.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/franchise-announcement |title=Railway plan puts new focus on passengers |publisher=Secretary of State for Transport |via=gov.uk |date=26 March 2013 |access-date=27 March 2013 |archive-date=13 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130813220726/https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/franchise-announcement |url-status=live }}</ref> A further delay saw this extended until 8 November 2014.

===Second franchise (2014–2021)===
On 9 November 2014, National Express was awarded the new 15-year [[Essex Thameside]] franchise, having successfully tendered against [[Abellio (transport company)|Abellio]], [[FirstGroup]] and [[MTR Corporation]].<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.dft.gov.uk/news/press-releases/dft-press-20120329/ |title=Bidders to oversee improvements on rail franchises announced |publisher=Department for Transport |date=29 March 2012 |access-date=20 September 2012 |archive-date=8 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121108022817/http://www.dft.gov.uk/news/press-releases/dft-press-20120329/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=C2c awarded 15-year Essex Thameside rail franchise |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-28052887 |date=27 June 2014 |access-date=27 June 2014 |work=BBC News |archive-date=28 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140628082901/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-28052887 |url-status=live }}</ref> The c2c brand was retained for the new operator, NXET Trains Limited, which replaced c2c Rail Limited.<ref name="company7897267">{{cite web |url=http://data.companieshouse.gov.uk/doc/company/07897267 |publisher=[[Companies House]] |title=Trenitalia c2c Limited formerly NXET Trains Limited: Company No. 7897267 |access-date=26 April 2024 |archive-date=9 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140809163649/http://data.companieshouse.gov.uk/doc/company/07897267 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="company 2938993">{{cite web |url=http://data.companieshouse.gov.uk/doc/company/02938993 |publisher=Companies House |title=c2c Rail Limited: Company No. 2938993 |access-date=26 April 2024 |archive-date=14 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714155254/http://data.companieshouse.gov.uk/doc/company/02938993 |url-status=live }}</ref> Management of Fenchurch Street station transferred from Network Rail to c2c.<ref name="SL Network Rail"/>

During December 2015, c2c introduced a new timetable to reflect long-term changes in passenger numbers at stations on the line.<ref name="Questions">{{cite web |url=https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/travelling-with-us/timetables-and-trains/c2c-director-timetable-updates/your-questions-on-the-new-timetable-answered/ |title=Your Questions on the New Timetable Answered |publisher=c2c |access-date=27 November 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181128075217/https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/travelling-with-us/timetables-and-trains/c2c-director-timetable-updates/your-questions-on-the-new-timetable-answered/ |archive-date = 28 November 2018 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Consultation responses to the draft timetable published in October 2014 indicated dissatisfaction with many of the proposed changes.<ref>{{cite web |title=Proposed c2c Timetable for December 2015: Consultation Report |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/media/905309/c2c-timetable-consultation-final-report-1.pdf |website=c2c-online.co.uk |access-date=7 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150319022811/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/media/905309/c2c-timetable-consultation-final-report-1.pdf |archive-date=19 March 2015}}</ref> c2c was criticised for putting the interests of "one-stop hoppers" (passengers travelling between Barking and West Ham) above those who travel further on the line.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/14152616.Commuter_outrage_shocks_c2c_boss/ |title=Commuter outrage shocks c2c boss |newspaper=Echo |location=Basildon |date=17 December 2015 |access-date=21 October 2018 |first=Philip |last=Jones |archive-date=28 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180828122744/http://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/14152616.Commuter_outrage_shocks_c2c_boss/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

====Trenitalia====
In February 2017, National Express sold c2c to [[Trenitalia]].<ref>{{cite news |title=National Express to sell c2c to Italian railways |url=https://www.railnews.co.uk/news/2017/01/11-national-express-to-sell-c2c.html |access-date=11 January 2017 |work=Railnews |date=11 January 2017 |archive-date=5 November 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181105202529/https://www.railnews.co.uk/news/2017/01/11-national-express-to-sell-c2c.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.nationalexpressgroup.com/newsmedia/corporate-news/2017/acquisition-of-c2c-franchise-by-trenitalia/ |title=Acquisition of c2c franchise by Trenitalia |publisher=National Express |date=11 January 2017 |access-date=18 January 2017 |archive-date=26 January 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180126104453/http://www.nationalexpressgroup.com/newsmedia/corporate-news/2017/acquisition-of-c2c-franchise-by-trenitalia |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/passenger/single-view/view/trenitalia-completes-c2c-acquisition.html |title=Trenitalia completes c2c acquisition |publisher=[[Railway Gazette International]] |date=13 February 2017 |access-date=15 February 2017 |archive-date=15 February 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170215122311/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/passenger/single-view/view/trenitalia-completes-c2c-acquisition.html |url-status=dead}}</ref> c2c was the only remaining National Express operated UK rail franchise, down from a peak of nine in 2003.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://nexgroup.blob.core.windows.net/media/1171/094418-ar2002.pdf |title=Annual Report 2002 |publisher=National Express |date=13 March 2003 |access-date=27 November 2015 |archive-date=8 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208100436/http://nexgroup.blob.core.windows.net/media/1171/094418-ar2002.pdf |url-status=dead}}</ref> The company name was subsequently changed to Trenitalia c2c Limited.

On 1 April 2017, c2c introduced a new on-board [[Wi-Fi]] service free to all customers. Also, it has an on-board entertainment service called Vista. c2c has partnered with Now TV to provide free television shows available to stream for c2c passengers.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/travelling-with-us/on-board/vista/ |title=Free onboard WiFi and entertainment - Trains to/from London, Southend & Essex with c2c Rail |website=c2c-online.co.uk |access-date=21 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170414162129/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/travelling-with-us/on-board/vista/ |archive-date=14 April 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.globalrailwayreview.com/news/33286/c2c-entertainment-gomedia/ |title=New on-board entertainment for c2c passengers |website=globalrailwayreview.com |date=4 April 2017 |access-date=27 April 2024 |archive-date=27 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427130033/https://www.globalrailwayreview.com/news/33286/c2c-entertainment-gomedia/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

During the summer of 2019, c2c ran an hourly weekend limited stop service between Fenchurch Street and Shoeburyness.<ref>{{cite web |last=Holden |first=Michael |title=London to Southend in less than 45 minutes… at weekends? |url=https://www.railadvent.co.uk/2019/03/london-to-southend-in-less-than-45-minutes-at-weekends.html |publisher=RailAdvent |access-date=2 February 2023 |date=1 March 2019}}</ref> The new service coincided with the weekend extension of Fenchurch Street to Southend Central via Ockendon trains to Shoeburyness, providing a seven trains per hour service between Shoeburyness and Benfleet on Saturdays and a five trains per hour service on Sundays.<ref>{{cite web |last=Longhorn |first=Danny |title=London-Southend in under 45 minutes on new fast c2c weekend trains |url=https://news.railbusinessdaily.com/london-southend-in-under-45-minutes-on-new-fast-c2c-weekend-trains/ |publisher=RailBusinessDaily |access-date=2 February 2023 |date=27 February 2019}}</ref>

In September 2019, it was announced that c2c had invested more than £10{{nbsp}}million into a new self service ticketing system with a user-friendly self-service interface developed with Voodoo Park. The interface is completely web-based and can be remotely repaired.<ref name=":0" /> The ticket machines installed in 2019 are from the Italian company Sigma Spa.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sigmaspa.com/new/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=318:sigma-trenitalia-c2c-ltd-en&catid=12:news&lang=en&Itemid=182 |title=London – Sigma Spa and Trenitalia C2C Ltd have successfully signed an MSA |date=3 September 2018 |access-date=22 March 2022 |publisher=Sigma Spa |archive-date=3 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201103125311/https://www.sigmaspa.com/new/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=318:sigma-trenitalia-c2c-ltd-en&catid=12:news&lang=en&Itemid=182 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

On 23 September 2019, c2c announced that it would be removing the first-to-last staffing at some stations and reducing ticket-office opening hours.<ref name=":0">{{Cite press release |url=https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/media-centre/latest-news/ticket-office-consultation/ |title=c2c consultation on ticket office opening hours {{!}} Trains to/from London, Southend & Essex with c2c Rail |date=22 September 2019 |publisher=c2c |access-date=24 September 2019 |archive-date=24 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190924164215/https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/media-centre/latest-news/ticket-office-consultation/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/17873953.train-stations-lose-permanent-security-guards/ |title=Train stations to lose permanent security guards |work=Echo |first=Poppie |last=Webster |date=2 September 2019 |access-date=27 April 2024 |archive-date=27 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427125009/https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/17873953.train-stations-lose-permanent-security-guards/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

On 31 March 2020, Trenitalia and the Department for Transport entered into an emergency measures agreement to vary the terms of the franchise agreement during the [[COVID-19 pandemic in the United Kingdom|COVID-19 pandemic]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Emergency Measures Agreement in respect of the Franchise Agreement dated 15 July 2014 |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/915291/essex-thameside-c2c-emergency-measures-agreement.pdf |publisher=Department for Transport |access-date=2 February 2023 |date=31 March 2020}}</ref> This took effect on 1 April 2020 and lasted until 20 September 2020. On 19 September 2020, Trenitalia and the Department for Transport entered into an emergency recovery measures agreement.<ref>{{cite web |title=Emergency Recovery Measures Agreement |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/955245/DfT-Trenitalia-C2C-Limited-Emergency-Recovery-Measures-Agreement-Sept-2020.pdf |publisher=Department for Transport |access-date=2 February 2023 |date=19 September 2020}}</ref> This was a precursor to the replacement of the franchise agreement with a rail contract.<ref>{{cite web |first=Ilaria Grasso |last=Macola |title=Explained: the end of the rail franchising system in the UK |url=https://www.railway-technology.com/features/explained-the-end-of-the-railway-franchising-system-in-the-uk/ |website=Railway-technology.com |date=23 September 2020 |access-date=2 February 2023 |archive-date=2 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230202065146/https://www.railway-technology.com/features/explained-the-end-of-the-railway-franchising-system-in-the-uk/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Rail contract (2021–2025)===
On 19 July 2021, the franchise agreement was replaced with a rail contract, which was due to expire on 23 July 2023.<ref>{{cite web |title=Trenitalia c2c Limited 2021: rail contract |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1045007/trenitalia-c2c-ltd-rail-contract.pdf |publisher=Department for Transport |date=19 July 2021 |access-date=5 March 2023 |archive-date=7 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230107094931/https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1045007/trenitalia-c2c-ltd-rail-contract.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Trenitalia c2c Limited 2021: business plan commitments |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1045008/trenitalia-c2c-ltd-business-plan-commitments.pdf |publisher=Department for Transport |access-date=29 January 2023 |archive-date=7 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230107094932/https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1045008/trenitalia-c2c-ltd-business-plan-commitments.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>

During May 2022, the timetable was amended to accommodate the London Overground extension to {{rws|Barking Riverside}},<ref>{{cite web |title=Timetable change 15 May |url=https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/media-centre/latest-news/timetable-change-15-may/ |access-date=2 February 2023 |date=April 2022 |archive-date=2 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230202114945/https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/media-centre/latest-news/timetable-change-15-may/ |url-status=live }}</ref> the extension having started running in July 2022 as a spur from the Tilbury loop line east of Barking, sharing infrastructure with c2c services.

c2c has been one of several train operators impacted by the [[2022–present United Kingdom railway strikes]], which was the first national rail strike in the UK for three decades.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-61573206 |title=Rail strike: RMT union votes for national action |work=[[BBC News]] |date=24 May 2022 |access-date=24 May 2022 |archive-date=24 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220524200021/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-61573206 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://inews.co.uk/news/strike-dates-this-week-when-train-tube-strikes-start-why-how-travel-affected-1695412 |title=The dates of the train, Tube and bus strikes this week, and how services will be affected |date=20 June 2022 |website=i (newspaper) |access-date=24 June 2022 |archive-date=24 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220624100918/https://inews.co.uk/news/strike-dates-this-week-when-train-tube-strikes-start-why-how-travel-affected-1695412 |url-status=live }}</ref> Its workers are amongst those who are participating in [[industrial action]] owing to a dispute over pay and working conditions.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/24226063.c2c-strike-action-service-affected-week/ |title=c2c strike action: how service is affected from this week |publisher=echo-news.co.uk |date=2 April 2014 |access-date=26 April 2024 |archive-date=26 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240426195042/https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/24226063.c2c-strike-action-service-affected-week/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.railadvent.co.uk/2023/05/rmt-and-aslef-strike-action-to-impact-c2c-services.html |title=RMT and ASLEF strike action to impact c2c services |website=railadvent.co.uk |first=Janine |last=Booth |date=6 May 2023 |access-date=26 April 2024 |archive-date=25 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240425105228/https://www.railadvent.co.uk/2023/05/rmt-and-aslef-strike-action-to-impact-c2c-services.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

===State ownership===
In the lead up to the [[2024 United Kingdom general election]], the [[Labour Party (UK)|Labour Party]] of [[Keir Starmer]] committed itself to bring the passenger operations of the British rail network back under [[state ownership]].<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Elgot |first1=Jessica |last2=Topham |first2=Gwyn |date=24 April 2024 |title=Labour promises rail nationalisation within five years of coming to power |url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2024/apr/24/labour-promises-rail-nationalisation-within-five-years-of-coming-to-power |access-date=8 February 2025 |work=The Guardia |issn=0261-3077}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=24 April 2024 |title=Labour pledges to renationalise most rail services within five years |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-68889345 |access-date=8 February 2025 |work=BBC News |archive-date=30 January 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250130061916/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-68889345 |url-status=live }}</ref> Following its [[2024 United Kingdom general election|election in 2024]], the government introduced the ''Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Act 2024'' that received the [[royal assent]] in November 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=3 September 2024 |title=Rail nationalisation takes a step closer with Starmer's first major public reform |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/rail-nationalisation-commons-victory-reform-b2606498.html |access-date=8 February 2025 |website=The Independent |archive-date=10 February 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250210102151/https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/rail-nationalisation-commons-victory-reform-b2606498.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In February 2023, the Department for Transport announced that c2c's contract had been extended to 20 July 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |date=9 February 2023 |title=Trenitalia c2c Limited 2021: notice of variation |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1172678/trenitalia-c2c-ltd-notice-of-variation.pdf |access-date=24 July 2023 |publisher=Department for Transport |archive-date=24 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230724015257/https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1172678/trenitalia-c2c-ltd-notice-of-variation.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> In December 2024, it was announced that the [[Trenitalia]] operated [[C2c (1996-2025)|c2c]] National Rail Contract would not be renewed when it expired, with [[DfT Operator]] to take over on 20 July 2025 by [[Great British Railways]].<ref name=":1">{{cite news |last1=Espiner |first1=Tom |title=South Western, C2C, and Greater Anglia to be renationalised |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ceqlnrgjr79o |access-date=4 December 2024 |work=BBC News |date=3 December 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241207094714/https://www.railnews.co.uk/news/2024/12/04-government-reveals-first-three-renationalised.html |url=https://www.railnews.co.uk/news/2024/12/04-government-reveals-first-three-renationalised.html |title=Government reveals first three operators to be renationalised after law change |publisher=[[Railnews]] |date=4 December 2024 |archive-date=7 December 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |title=Operators to move in-house every three months |magazine=[[Rail (magazine)|Rail]] |issue=1024 |date=11 December 2024 |page=14}}</ref>

==Branding==
[[File:LTS Rail logo.webp|thumb|LTS Rail logo used prior to the rebrand]]
The name c2c has no specific meaning, but is often thought to represent "city to coast" or "capital to coast", reflecting the nature of the route, or "commitment to customers".<ref>{{cite web |title=Railways Today |url=http://www.trackoff.org/railtoday.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080619041622/http://www.trackoff.org/railtoday.htm |archive-date=19 June 2008 |access-date=19 July 2008 |website=trackoff.org}}</ref>

The c2c website stated:<ref>{{cite web |title=What does c2c stand for? |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/about/about3.html |website=www.c2c-online.co.uk |access-date=24 April 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051201024153/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/about/about3.html |archive-date=1 December 2005}}</ref>

{{blockquote|The name c2c doesn't mean anything specific. In a sense it can mean anything you want it to. Its uniqueness reflects the young, vibrant character of the people we serve. c2c could stand for coast to capital, or capital to coast. From our point of view, one of the most important things it stands for is commitment to customers.}}

National Express also referred to the c2c route as City to Coast.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Unternehmen |url=http://nationalexpress.de/unternehmen |website=National Express Rail GmbH |access-date=26 January 2016 |language=de |archive-date=23 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160123222858/http://nationalexpress.de/unternehmen |url-status=live }}</ref> c2c used the slogan "way2go", but later used the "Making travel simpler" slogan also used by other National Express companies.{{Citation needed|date=December 2024}}

==Services==
[[File:Hugh llewelyn 357 027 (6309423572).jpg|thumb|[[British Rail Class 357|Class 357 ''Electrostar'']] at [[Limehouse railway station|Limehouse station]] in August 2007 in the original livery]]

===Routes===
c2c operates passenger services on the [[London, Tilbury and Southend line]] from {{rws|Fenchurch Street}} in the [[City of London]] to {{rws|Shoeburyness}} in [[Essex]], a distance of {{convert|39|mi|40|chain|km|2|lk=in}}.<ref>{{cite book |last=Padgett |first=David |editor-last=Brailsford |editor-first=Martyn |title=Railway Track Diagrams 2: Eastern |edition=4th |date=October 2016 |orig-year=1988 |publisher=Trackmaps |location=Frome, UK |isbn=978-0-9549866-8-1 |at=map 3C}}</ref> The main line operates via Basildon with a loop line via Tilbury and a branch line via Ockendon. c2c trains connect [[Central London]] with [[East London]] and the northern [[Thames Gateway]] area of southern Essex. The main route between Fenchurch Street and Shoeburyness has a fastest timetabled journey of 56 minutes.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=12 December 2021 |title=c2c Train Times |url=https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/app/uploads/2022/01/TT_Booklet-12Dec2.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240413153125/https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/app/uploads/2022/01/TT_Booklet-12Dec2.pdf |archive-date=13 April 2024 |access-date=6 January 2025 |website=c2c}}</ref>

Although the [[British Rail Class 357|Class 357 ''Electrostar'']] trains are capable of running at {{convert|100|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}, the line's speed limit restricts them to only {{convert|75|mph|km/h|abbr=on}},<ref>{{cite web |last1=Marius |first1=Callum |title=London trains: c2c unveils rebound plans after weeks of strike action and violent attack on staff |url=https://www.mylondon.news/news/zone-1-news/london-trains-c2c-unveils-rebound-24523476 |publisher=MyLondon |access-date=1 February 2023 |date=21 July 2022 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201091748/https://www.mylondon.news/news/zone-1-news/london-trains-c2c-unveils-rebound-24523476 |url-status=live }}</ref> To meet a 2014 franchise commitment, most services between Fenchurch Street and Barking have called at all stations during peak times since December 2015.<ref name="Questions"/>

{{As of|2025|1}} the off-peak Monday–Friday service is as follows:<ref name=":2" />

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! colspan="3"  | [[London, Tilbury and Southend line]]
|-
! Route !! {{abbr|tph|trains per hour}} !! Calling at
|-
| {{rws|Fenchurch Street}} to {{rws|Shoeburyness}} via Basildon || 4 || {{cslist|{{rws|Limehouse}}, {{rws|West Ham}}, {{rws|Barking}}, {{rws|Upminster}}, {{rws|West Horndon}} (2 tph), {{rws|Laindon}}, {{rws|Basildon}}, {{rws|Pitsea}} (2 tph), {{rws|Benfleet}}, {{rws|Leigh-on-Sea}}, {{rws|Chalkwell}}, {{rws|Westcliff}}, {{rws|Southend Central}}, {{rws|Southend East}}, {{rws|Thorpe Bay}}}}
|-
|Fenchurch Street to Southend Central via Ockendon || 2 || {{cslist|Limehouse, West Ham, Barking, Upminster, {{rws|Ockendon}}, {{rws|Chafford Hundred Lakeside}}, {{rws|Grays}}, {{rws|Tilbury Town}}, {{rws|East Tilbury}}, {{rws|Stanford-le-Hope}}, Pitsea, Benfleet, Leigh-on-Sea, Chalkwell, Westcliff}}
|-
|Fenchurch Street to Grays via Rainham || 2 || {{cslist|Limehouse, West Ham, Barking, {{rws|Dagenham Dock}}, {{rws|Rainham|London}}, {{rws|Purfleet}}}}
|}

=== Use of Liverpool Street ===
[[File:fenchurch street station.jpg|thumb|Most c2c services operate from [[Fenchurch Street railway station]]]]On weekends, c2c operates a limited service to {{rws|London Liverpool Street}} that diverges at Barking, and calls at {{rws|Stratford}} instead of West Ham, Limehouse and Fenchurch Street. This route can also be utilised during engineering works or disruption.<ref name=":2" /> The route uses the [[Gospel Oak to Barking line]] and the [[Great Eastern Main Line]], with trains passing through {{rws|Woodgrange Park}}, {{rws|Forest Gate}}, and {{rws|Maryland}} stations without stopping.

===Future services===
{{rws|Beam Park}}, a new station between Dagenham Dock and Rainham, will eventually become part of c2c's Fenchurch Street to Grays via Rainham route when it opens.

== Ticketing ==
c2c has issued tickets for travel to [[Smartcards on National Rail|National Rail ITSO smartcards]] branded 'c2c Smart' since 3 November 2014.<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Clinnick |first1=Richard |title=c2c launches new smart card |url=https://www.railmagazine.com/news/network/c2c-launches-new-smart-card |website=RAIL Magazine |publisher=Bauer Consumer Media Ltd |access-date=30 January 2023 |date=4 November 2014}}</ref>

Through historic agreement there is interavailable ticketing with the [[London Underground]] between Fenchurch Street/Tower Hill and Upminster, with the fares set by [[Transport for London]].<ref>{{cite web |title=TfL fare scale on National Rail |url=https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/tfl_fare_scale_on_national_rail |website=WhatDoTheyKnow |access-date=30 January 2023 |date=21 February 2019 |archive-date=30 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230130071559/https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/tfl_fare_scale_on_national_rail |url-status=live }}</ref> Since January 2004 the [[Oyster card (pay as you go) on National Rail|pay-as-you-go]] product on [[Oyster card]] has been available at stations between Fenchurch Street/Liverpool Street and Upminster.<ref>{{cite book |title=Your Guide to Oyster |date=2004 |publisher=Transport for London}}</ref> It was extended to Dagenham Dock and Rainham in 2008.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/tickets_timetables/using_oyster_payg_on_c2c |title=Using Oyster PAYG on c2c |publisher=c2c |date=2 January 2008 |access-date=30 July 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090717072516/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/tickets_timetables/using_oyster_payg_on_c2c |archive-date=17 July 2009}}</ref> During January 2010, it was extended to Chafford Hundred, Grays, Ockendon and Purfleet.<ref name=gla2010>{{cite web |url=http://legacy.london.gov.uk/mayor/mayor-decisions/docs/20091015-md457-fares-2010.pdf |publisher=Greater London Authority |title=January 2010 Fare Changes |year=2009 |access-date=27 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130310165020/http://legacy.london.gov.uk/mayor/mayor-decisions/docs/20091015-md457-fares-2010.pdf |archive-date=10 March 2013 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

Pay-as-you-go payment by [[contactless bank card]] or [[smartphone]] is available at all stations between Fenchurch Street/Liverpool Street and Grays.<ref name="Route Map 22-09">{{cite web |title=c2c route map |publisher=c2c |url=https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/app/uploads/2022/09/c2c_Route_OnlyMap.pdf |access-date=1 February 2023 |date=September 2022}}</ref> Contactless pay-as-you-go payment was due to be extended to all stations by December 2023.<ref>{{cite web |title=53 train stations to benefit from tap-in tap-out rollout |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/53-train-stations-to-benefit-from-tap-in-tap-out-rollout |website=GOV.UK |access-date=7 July 2023 |date=4 July 2023 |archive-date=6 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230706022818/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/53-train-stations-to-benefit-from-tap-in-tap-out-rollout |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Simone |first1=Carlo |title=Tap-in contactless payments to come into South East stations |url=https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/23631471.tap-in-contactless-payments-come-south-east-stations/ |access-date=7 July 2023 |work=Echo |date=4 July 2023 |archive-date=7 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230707162950/https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/23631471.tap-in-contactless-payments-come-south-east-stations/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The expansion of contactless pay-as-you-go ticketing was delayed indefinitely because of technical problems.<ref name="Dec 23 fares">{{cite news |last1=Lydall |first1=Ross |title=Train pain: Commuters warned of new peak-hour fares as Contactless plan is delayed |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/train-fares-peak-hours-commuters-south-east-passengers-contactless-b1124228.html |access-date=24 February 2024 |work=Evening Standard |date=2 December 2023 |archive-date=24 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224110455/https://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/train-fares-peak-hours-commuters-south-east-passengers-contactless-b1124228.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

During 2023, security teams employed by c2c and operating in partnership with the [[British Transport Police]] conducted a crackdown on [[fare evasion]]; the resulting fines generated in excess of £250,000 in under a year.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.romfordrecorder.co.uk/news/23704285.c2c-cracks-people-travelling-without-valid-tickets/ |title=c2c cracks down on people travelling without valid tickets |work=Romford Recorder |first=Riddhi |last=Kachhela |date=6 August 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/23920819.c2c-fare-evasion-sees-dodgers-forced-pay-back-thousands/ |title=c2c fare evasion sees dodgers forced to pay back thousands |first=Sophie |last=England |access-date=26 April 2024 |work=Echo |date=13 November 2023}}</ref> Starting on 3 December 2023, fares were revised with a new weekday evening peak period introduced between 4pm and 7pm, during which off-peak tickets could no longer be used. Super off-peak tickets were withdrawn entirely.<ref name="Dec 23 fares"/><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.lbc.co.uk/news/rail-fare-increase-five-operators-abolish-super-off-peak/ |title=Millions face increase in rail tickets as five operators abolish super off-peak tickets |website=lbc.co.uk |date=4 December 2023}}</ref>

From January 2024 c2c started to accept electronic tickets that can be purchased and stored on a mobile phone. This followed a trial during December 2023.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.yourthurrock.com/2023/06/26/c2c-is-set-to-go-ticketless-by-end-of-the-year/ |title=c2c is set to go ticketless by end of the year |work=yourthurrock.com |date=26 June 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Wootton |first1=Doug |title=E-tickets rolled out across c2c network for 'quicker and easier' travel |url=https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/24040665.c2c-passengers-can-now-use-e-tickets-across-network/ |access-date=24 February 2024 |work=Echo |date=10 January 2024}}</ref>

==Rolling stock==
===Slam-door replacement===
[[File:312792 at Shoeburyness.jpg|thumb|{{brc|312}} at {{rws|Shoeburyness}} station on 29 March 2003, the final day of running.]]
LTS Rail inherited a fleet of [[Slam-door train|slam-door]] electric multiple unit {{brc|302}}, {{brc|310}} and {{brc|312}} train sets from [[Network SouthEast]]. The original franchise agreement was for 25 sliding door trainsets (consisting of 100 carriages) to be transferred from [[West Anglia Great Northern]] (WAGN) and for 44 new trains (consisting of 176 carriages) to be ordered by the company.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Class 317s for LTS |magazine=[[Rail (magazine)|Rail]] |issue=296 |date=15 January 1997 |page=9}}</ref> LTS Rail ordered 44 [[British Rail Class 357|Class 357 ''Electrostar'']] units in 1997, to be leased from [[Porterbrook]].<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Adtranz wins £200 million order for new trains on 'Misery Line' |magazine=[[Rail (magazine)|Rail]] |issue=307 |date=18 June 1997 |page=6}}</ref> The most elderly Class 302 units were removed from regular service on 4 July 1998, several sets were retained as spares in case of stock shortages.<ref>{{cite journal |title=Class 302 Gone? |date=1999 |journal=Electric Railway Society Journal |page=18 |volume=44}}</ref> By mid-1997, WAGN had released 18 {{brc|317}} units. However, both companies were experiencing an unexpected increase in passenger numbers and WAGN was unable to release more vehicles by December 1998.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=No more sliding-door trains for LTS as WAGN keeps last Class 317s |magazine=[[Rail (magazine)|Rail]] |issue=345 |date=2 December 1998 |page=13}}</ref>

The franchise agreement was renegotiated in November 1998 to replace the entire LTS Rail fleet with new vehicles, allowing for the return of the Class 317s to WAGN and the planned elimination of slam-door stock by March 2002.<ref name="1998 franchise"/> The first Class 357 train was delivered in 1999.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=First LTS Electrostar Class 357 delivered |magazine=[[Rail (magazine)|Rail]] |issue=358 |date=2 June 1999 |page=45}}</ref> A second batch of 28 Class 357 units was ordered in December 1999, to be leased from [[Angel Trains]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.investegate.co.uk/prism-rail-plc--pim-/rns/-80m-train-order-for-lts-rail/199912211015138619C/ |publisher=Prism Rail |date=21 December 1999 |title=£80m Train Order for LTS Rail |access-date=4 February 2023 |archive-date=4 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204020215/https://www.investegate.co.uk/prism-rail-plc--pim-/rns/-80m-train-order-for-lts-rail/199912211015138619C/ |url-status=dead}}</ref> This satisfied a franchise commitment to increase the fleet by three units. Reliability problems with the new trains led to their withdrawal from service at peak times in October 2000.<ref>{{cite web |title=Progress on c2c's new train fleet |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/site/news/news_1a2s.htm |website=c2c-online.co.uk |access-date=3 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011118012509/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/site/news/news_1a2s.htm |archive-date=18 November 2001 |date=12 March 2001}}</ref> By way of compensation, two additional units were added to the first order for free by the supplier [[Adtranz]].<ref>{{cite magazine |magazine=[[The Railway Magazine]] |year=2002 |page=31}}{{Full citation needed|date=May 2023}}</ref><!-- title and issue number were not carried over date was wrong and title made no sense--> During 2003, c2c became the first [[train operating company]] to have replaced its entire fleet with new accessible trains. The last slam-door Class 312 service ran on 29 March 2003.<ref>{{cite web |title=Farewell 312's |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/news/news_1a3o.html |website=c2c-online.co.uk |access-date=3 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20031006161019/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk:80/news/news_1a3o.html |archive-date=6 October 2003 |date=25 March 2003}}</ref>

===Class 357===

In March 2007, after extensive trials, c2c began fitting [[Regenerative brake|regenerative braking]] to its fleet, becoming the first UK train operator to do so.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/latest_updates/news/c2c_takes_the_lead_in_energy_saving_train_travel |title=c2c takes the lead in energy saving train travel |publisher=c2c |date=3 June 2007 |access-date=19 July 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080511172334/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/latest_updates/news/c2c_takes_the_lead_in_energy_saving_train_travel |archive-date=11 May 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref> On 3 June 2007, the eve of [[World Environment Day]], one train was given an all-over green vinyl sticker livery with the slogan "All c2c trains are greener now – find out more at – www.c2c-online.co.uk – c2c – the greener way to go" to highlight the completion of the scheme, which the company says has enabled energy savings of up to 20%.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/about_us/green_credentials |title=Green Credentials |publisher=c2c |date=4 June 2007 |access-date=19 July 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080509104951/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/about_us/green_credentials |archive-date=9 May 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

With a few Class 357s being out of service at the same time, from late 2006 two {{brc|321}}s were hired from [[Silverlink]] for three months for weekday peak-hour use between Fenchurch Street and Laindon, and Pitsea via Rainham, to cover for the unavailable units.

In June 2009, Bombardier began repainting the Class 357 units.<ref name=c2cNewsJun09>{{cite web |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/content/download/13056/166179/c2c_CommuterNews4ppA5june_09.pdf |title=c2c Commuter News – June 2009 |publisher=c2c |date=June 2009 |access-date=14 August 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101228193342/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/content/download/13056/166179/c2c_CommuterNews4ppA5june_09.pdf |archive-date=28 December 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The vinyl wraps carrying the original purplish blue and [[magenta]] c2c livery were removed and the units reliveried in white with dark blue doors.<ref name=c2cNewsJun09/> The last blue liveried train ran on 5 March 2011.<ref>{{cite web |title='Last Blue Train' takes to the c2c rails |url=https://railuk.com/business/train-operating-companies/last-blue-train-takes-to-the-c2c-rails/ |website=Rail UK |access-date=3 February 2023 |year=2011 |archive-date=3 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203201145/https://railuk.com/business/train-operating-companies/last-blue-train-takes-to-the-c2c-rails/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Overcrowding relief===
[[File:C2c passenger numbers.png|thumb|c2c passenger numbers (millions) 2011 – 2019 Q2 (rolling 12 month figure)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/displayreport/html/excel/2b2e2c38-c822-4e1f-9fb4-b049b3c13899 |title=ORR passenger numbers by train operating company |publisher=[[Office of Rail and Road|ORR]] |access-date=9 March 2016 |archive-date=30 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130011335/https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/Error.html?aspxerrorpath=%2Fdisplayreport%2Fhtml%2Fexcel%2F2b2e2c38-c822-4e1f-9fb4-b049b3c13899 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/displayreport/report/html/8de03530-6f8e-43c7-bb98-c26d989a9b0c |title=Display Report &#124; Office of Rail Regulation - National Rail Trends Portal |access-date=26 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115082856/https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/displayreport/report/html/8de03530-6f8e-43c7-bb98-c26d989a9b0c |archive-date=15 November 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref>]]

As part of the 2014 franchise, c2c committed to leasing new trains to cope with rising passenger numbers, which were boosted especially by the opening of the [[Docklands Light Railway]] station at {{rws|West Ham}} in 2011 and the rise of Canary Wharf as a financial centre.<ref name="London Rec">{{Cite web |url=https://www.londonreconnections.com/2016/times-changing-c2c/ |title=c2c: The Timetables, They Are A Changin' |website=londonreconnections.com |date=3 February 2016 |access-date=22 March 2022 |archive-date=23 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210923135301/https://www.londonreconnections.com/2016/times-changing-c2c/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

The Class 357 trains had been introduced with high density 3+2 seating, with a total capacity of 406, consisting of 282 seats and space for 124 standing. In late 2015 c2c adapted 20% of its carriages into a "Metro" configuration, involving removing seats around doorways and converting trains to a 2+2 layout. The Metro configuration's capacity is 556, consisting of 222 seats, and space for 334 standing.<ref name="Route 2020">{{cite web |title=Essex Thameside Study |url=https://www.networkrail.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Essex-Thameside-Study.pdf |publisher=Network Rail |access-date=15 February 2023 |date=July 2020}}</ref> This addressed the issue of the high volumes of passengers using c2c to travel between stations on the [[District line|District Line]]; between {{rws|West Ham}}, {{rws|Barking}}, and {{rws|Upminster}} c2c trains stop less frequently and they travel further from the city.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/travel-information/timetables-trains/new-trains/ |title=c2c New trains |access-date=11 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160315164353/http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/travel-information/timetables-trains/new-trains/ |archive-date=15 March 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

During early 2016, c2c announced that it would lease additional trains to relieve overcrowding.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/travelling-with-us/timetables-and-trains/c2c-director-timetable-updates/package-of-changes-to-improve-peak-services/ |title=Package of changes to improve peak services - Trains to/from London, Southend & Essex with c2c Rail |website=c2c-online.co.uk |access-date=21 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181021151532/https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/travelling-with-us/timetables-and-trains/c2c-director-timetable-updates/package-of-changes-to-improve-peak-services/ |archive-date=21 October 2018 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Later that year, the company commenced a lease on six [[British Rail Class 387|Class 387s]] for three years from [[Porterbrook]] to increase capacity on the busiest services.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.c2c-online.co.uk/travelling-with-us/timetables-and-trains/c2c-director-timetable-updates/brand-new-carriages-in-production-in-derby/ |title=Brand-new carriages in production in Derby - Trains to/from London, Southend & Essex with c2c Rail |website=c2c-online.co.uk |access-date=21 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181021151502/https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/travelling-with-us/timetables-and-trains/c2c-director-timetable-updates/brand-new-carriages-in-production-in-derby/ |archive-date=21 October 2018 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/traction-rolling-stock/single-view/view/c2c-electrostar-emus-under-construction.html |title=c2c Electrostar EMUs under construction |publisher=Railway Gazette International |date=5 July 2016 }}{{Dead link|date=February 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> The first Class 387 set entered service in November 2016.<ref name=IRJ161116>{{cite web |url=http://www.railjournal.com/index.php/commuter-rail/essex-thameside-emu-tender-launched-as-class-387s-enter-service.html |title=Essex Thameside EMU tender launched as Class 387s enter service |publisher=[[International Railway Journal]] |date=16 November 2016 |access-date=13 July 2017 |archive-date=17 November 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161117150516/http://www.railjournal.com/index.php/commuter-rail/essex-thameside-emu-tender-launched-as-class-387s-enter-service.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Class 720 ===
{{Main |British Rail Class 720}}
In December 2017, c2c announced it had reached an agreement with rolling stock financiers [[Porterbrook]] and manufacturer Bombardier to procure 60 [[British Rail Class 720|Class 720]] vehicles of the latter's [[Alstom Aventra|Aventra]] family, formed into six 10-car units (later changed to twelve 5-car units), with the intention that they would enter service in 2021.<ref>{{Cite press release |date=14 December 2017 |title=c2c signs major deal for brand-new British trains |url=https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/media-centre/latest-news/c2c-signs-major-deal-for-brand-new-british-trains/ |access-date=27 February 2025 |publisher=c2c |archive-date=17 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201217192417/https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/media-centre/latest-news/c2c-signs-major-deal-for-brand-new-british-trains/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The first train was delivered to c2c on 19 April 2022, and the fleet entered service on 27 September 2023.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Banks |first=Ethan |date=27 September 2023 |title=c2c new trains enter passenger service this morning |work=Basildon Canvey Southend Echo |url=https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/23816419.c2c-new-trains-enter-passenger-service-morning/ |access-date=27 September 2023 |archive-date=27 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230927101046/https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/23816419.c2c-new-trains-enter-passenger-service-morning/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.railtechnologymagazine.com/articles/new-c2c-class-720-trains-enter-service |title=New c2c Class 720 trains enter service |first=Rich |last=Wilcock |work=Rail Technology Magazine |date=10 October 2023 |access-date=27 April 2024 |archive-date=27 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427113545/https://www.railtechnologymagazine.com/articles/new-c2c-class-720-trains-enter-service |url-status=live }}</ref> These replaced the six four-car {{brc|387}} units, which c2c was leasing.

=== Class 357 Repaint ===
On 15 May 2024 it was announced that Alstom would be painting and repairing c2c's {{brc|357}}s over a 24-month period at their depot in Ilford.<ref>{{Cite press release |title=Alstom secures £8.8 million contract from c2c for paint and repair of Class 357 fleet in the UK |url=https://www.alstom.com/press-releases-news/2024/5/alstom-secures-8-million-contract-c2c-paint-and-repair-class-357-fleet-uk |access-date=8 February 2025 |website=Alstom |archive-date=19 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240519001853/https://www.alstom.com/press-releases-news/2024/5/alstom-secures-8-million-contract-c2c-paint-and-repair-class-357-fleet-uk |url-status=live }}</ref> The work includes the repair of huck bolt covers, body end corrosion, side vent corrosion, sole bar corrosion, roof corrosion and the repaint of all the units improving the longevity of the fleet .The first refreshed unit, 357207, entered into service on 10 December 2024. The programme is expected to take 24 months to complete with each unit taking 20 days to complete.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Winfield |first=Emma |date=16 January 2025 |title=Trenitalia c2c embarks on major project to repaint entire Class 357 fleet {{!}} Trains to/from London, Southend & Essex with c2c Rail |url=https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/media-centre/latest-news/trenitalia-c2c-embarks-on-major-project-to-repaint-entire-class-357-fleet/ |access-date=8 February 2025 |website=c2c |archive-date=16 January 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250116164955/https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/media-centre/latest-news/trenitalia-c2c-embarks-on-major-project-to-repaint-entire-class-357-fleet/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Current fleet===
The c2c fleet is maintained at [[East Ham Depot]] and [[Shoeburyness Depot]].
{| class="wikitable"
|- style="background:#f9f9f9;"
! rowspan="2" |Family
! rowspan="2" |Class
! rowspan="2" |Image
! rowspan="2" |Type
! colspan="2" |Top speed
! rowspan="2" |Number
! rowspan="2" |Carriages
! rowspan="2" |Routes operated
! rowspan="2" |Built
|- style="background:#f9f9f9;"
!mph
!km/h
|-
| rowspan="2" align="center" |[[Bombardier Electrostar]]
| rowspan="2" align="center" |[[British Rail Class 357|357]]
| rowspan="2" align="center" |[[File:357317 at Southend East.jpg|100x100px]]
[[File:Unit_357207_at_Dagenham_Dock_in_Jan_2025.jpg|frameless|94x94px]]
| rowspan="4" align="center" |[[Electric multiple unit|EMU]]
| rowspan="4" align="center" |100
| rowspan="4" align="center" |161
| align="center" |74
| align="center" |4
| align="center" |[[London, Tilbury and Southend line]]
| align="center" |1999{{ndash}}2002
Repaint 2024–2026
|-
| colspan="4" |[[File:C2c Class 357 White.png|445x445px]]
|-
| rowspan="2" align="center" |[[Alstom Aventra]]
| rowspan="2" align="center" |[[British Rail Class 720|720/6]]<ref>{{cite magazine |title=720s for c2c  |magazine=[[Modern Railways]] |issue=857 |date=February 2020 |page=84}}</ref>
| rowspan="2" align="center" |[[File:720606 5Q93.jpg|100x100px]]
| align="center" |12
| align="center" |5
| align="center" |[[London, Tilbury and Southend line]]
| align="center" |2022<ref>{{cite magazine |title=60 Class 720s now accepted |magazine=Today's Railways UK |issue=243 |date=May 2022 |page=67}}</ref>
|-
| colspan="4" |[[File:C2c Class 720-6 - New Livery.png|frameless|663x663px]]
|}

===Former fleet===
Below is a table of former units operated by c2c.
{|class="wikitable"
|- style="background:#f9f9f9;"
! rowspan="2" |Family
! rowspan="2" |Class
! rowspan="2" |Image
! rowspan="2" |Type
! colspan="2" |Top speed
! rowspan="2" |Number
! rowspan="2" |Carriages
! rowspan="2" |Routes operated
! rowspan="2" |Built
! rowspan="2" |Left fleet
|- style="background:#f9f9f9;"
!mph
!km/h
|-
|align=center|BR First Generation (Mark 1)
|[[British Rail Class 302|302]]
|align=center|[[File:LTS unit (class 302) 298 1964 Barking.jpg|100x100px]]
|align=center rowspan="7" |[[Electric multiple unit|EMU]]
|align=center rowspan="2" |75
|align=center rowspan="2" |121
|align=center|30
| rowspan="6" align="center" |4
| rowspan="6" align="center" |[[London, Tilbury and Southend line]]
|align=center|1958{{ndash}}1959
|align=center|1998
|-
|align=center rowspan="2" |BR First Generation (Mark 2)
|[[British Rail Class 310|310]]
|align=center|[[File:Coventry Steve Jones 310 5106457381.jpg|100x100px]]
|align=center|35
|align=center|1965{{ndash}}1967
|align=center|2002
|-
|[[British Rail Class 312|312]]
|align=center|[[File:312792 at Shoeburyness.jpg|100x100px]]
|align=center|90
|align=center|145
|align=center|25
|align=center|1975{{ndash}}1978
|align=center|2003
|-
|align=center rowspan="2" |BR Second Generation ([[British Rail Mark 3|Mark 3]])
|[[British Rail Class 317|317]]
|align=center|[[File:317316 at Cambridge.JPG|100x100px]]
|align=center rowspan="2" |100
|align=center rowspan="2" |161
|align=center|18
|align=center rowspan="2" |1981{{ndash}}1982, 1985{{ndash}}1987
|align=center|2002
|-
|[[British Rail Class 321|321]]
|align=center|[[File:321409 HarrowWealdstone.jpg|100x100px]]
|align=center|2
|align=center|2007
|-
|align=center rowspan="2" |[[Bombardier Electrostar]]
|align=center rowspan="2" |[[British Rail Class 387|387/3]]
|align=center rowspan="2" |[[File:Thatcham - c2c 387306 approaching from Newbury.JPG|100x100px]]
|align=center rowspan="2" |110
|align=center rowspan="2" |177
|align=center|6
|align=center|2016
|align=center|2022<ref>{{cite magazine |title=More '387s' for GTR |magazine=Modern Railways |issue=August 2022 |page=101}}</ref>
|-
|align=center colspan="5" |[[File:C2c Class 387-3.png|500x500px]]
|}

==Performance==
In the year to July 2024, c2c trains carried 35.8 million passengers (an increase of 5.9% from the previous year), who travelled 835 million passenger kilometres (+10.6%). Over the course of the year, c2c planned over 106,000 (+3.8%) services, of which 79.7% (+2.4%) ran on time. c2c has 638.3 [[full-time equivalent]] employees (-0.2%).<ref>{{Cite web |publisher=[[Office of Rail and Road]] |date=30 July 2024 |title=Train Operating Company key statistics - c2c |url=https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/media/sbhhe1sx/c2c-2023-24.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250106083904/https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/media/sbhhe1sx/c2c-2023-24.pdf |archive-date=6 January 2025 |access-date=6 January 2025}}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
* {{Official website}}

{{s-start}}
{{s-new|creation
}}
{{s-ttl
| title = Operator of London, Tilbury & Southend franchise
| years = 1996{{ndash}}2014
}}
{{s-non
| reason = Abolished
}}
{{s-new|creation
}}
{{s-ttl
| title = Operator of Essex Thameside franchise
| years = 2014{{ndash}}2021
}}
{{s-non
| reason = Abolished
}}
{{s-new|creation
}}
{{s-ttl
| title = Operator of [[Essex Thameside]] rail contract
| years = 2021{{ndash}}2025
}}
{{s-inc}}
{{s-end}}

{{Portal bar|London|London transport}}
{{UK TOCs|current|state=collapsed}}
{{Transport in London}}
{{Mobico Group}}
{{Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane}}

[[Category:Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane]]
[[Category:Mobico Group]]
[[Category:Railway companies established in 1996]]
[[Category:Railway operators in London]]
[[Category:Train operating companies in the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Transport in Thurrock]]
[[Category:1996 establishments in England]]